Apple Watch vs iphone with Safari blocked

[Anonymous]

I’m delaying giving my 12 yo DS a cell phone by giving him an apple watch. I think that will delay free access to browsers and social media. However DS says I can block safari on a cell phone and it will be the same. Is this true? Thanks!

[Anonymous]

It’s not that easy to block apps according to friends. Kids find loopholes!

[Anonymous]

Applewatch or flip phone both work fine. There are limited games that are on the device and they can play at times. Several of our daughter's friends in 6th grade have flip phones, she has an Applewatch. She complains about it but we will wait til 8th for a smartphone. Most of the kids who have smartphones seem to find ways to hack around and/or abuse if no controls are on it. Some are responsible but that seems to be the minority in my child's class.

Our school generally recommends waiting til 8th or so to give them a smartphone. In 6th grade, they may text or our child may need to call or text for pick up if things have changed and also walks home alone sometimes.

Kids on their phones taking selfies and not paying attention to the party sometimes is also a thing. Our daughter complains about it sometimes.

[Anonymous]

Agreed. You can block it, but they can always ask an extra minute, or “need” it for school- slippery slope. If I had to do it again, I would have gone with the watch. Good on you to wait !